The driver saw a message on the parking meter that parking is free on Saturday and did not pay. A few months later, he received a fine of 165 zlotys with an explanation that there was a software malfunction
On July 19, the driver left the car in a paid parking zone. A message appeared on the parking meter screen: «Today is a free parking day,» so he decided that he didn’t need to pay, but took a photo of the screen just in case.
Later he received a letter from the City Roads Authority (ZDM): it turned out that payment was indeed mandatory. The office explained that the message appeared due to a program error, and according to the rules, the driver was supposed to try to make a payment or use another parking meter.
Initially, the complaint was dismissed, but later the decision was changed. The manufacturer of the parking meters acknowledged the failure and agreed to pay all fines incurred due to the error. Those who have already paid are promised a refund
ZDM added that the other parking meters and mobile applications were functioning normally, and information about paid parking was indicated on signs and devices.
The problematic parking meter has been turned off, and the manufacturer has taken responsibility and costs. The agency apologized and reminded that parking in the zone is always paid, and failure to pay is considered a violation, even if a technical failure occurred.
The parking meter showed a day without fees, but a penalty came — a loud case from Gdynia with a happy ending
